This field affords great opportunities for young persons. The individuals may attain employment with an industrial plant, HVAC/Plumbing contractor, or go into business for themselves. The training in this program provides the opportunity for students to prepare themselves in the installation, maintenance, and repair of all types of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration equipment, soil and waste sanitation, venting, gas and air lines, installation of plumbing fixtures, installation of large and small self-contained to large central plant-type systems of air conditioning.

It also gives them the opportunity to read and interpret blueprints and drawings. On smaller installations the mechanic may have to prepare his or her own work diagrams and do simple layout work such as measuring and cutting pipe. They also get experience in making soil pipe joints, joint wiping, soldering, threading, welding and brazing. The installation of plastic pipe and glass pipe are also covered in this program.

Fundamental knowledge of electrical practices, reading schematics, electrical controls, building circuits, working with chemicals, piping practices, types of furnaces, efficiency testing, energy management, and related safety in all of the above curricula areas provides the student the opportunity to prepare themselves for the working world.

Occupational Profile: For information on this occupation’s description, required knowledge, job tasks and related job titles, state and national wages, and employment trends, visit the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s site for this career field at:      http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/49-9021.01